Proposals

Proposal Process

The Office of the Vice President for Research at Western Michigan University provides a number of resources to assist with the development of a strong external funding proposal. The principal investigator has primary responsibility for developing a proposal and a project budget that complies with applicable WMU and sponsor policies and regulations. The research office and research program officers are available for assistance and support throughout the process.

Researchers are urged to contact their research program officer as soon as a funding opportunity has been identified. It is never too early to consult with a proposal expert.

Step 1: Develop a proposal

The Office of the Vice President for Research has compiled guidelines, samples and other tools to help principal investigators at WMU in developing their proposals.

Step 2: Route and submit the proposal

In most cases, the University—not the principal investigator—is considered to be the applicant on a proposal. Any proposal that will be submitted on behalf of the University or that involves a project that will be performed by a University employee as part of a University appointment or will use any University resources must be approved by the appropriate WMU officials prior to submission. This internal routing and approval process is completed using the Proposal Approval Form.